5 Talking Points Ahead Of Round Two Of The Six Nations

Round two.

The Six Nations returns this weekend with round two. Up first we’ve got Ireland hosting Italy at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, before Wales travel to Twickenham to take on England in the tie of the round.

Sunday then sees Scotland host France at Murrayfield. After last weekend’s demolition at the hands of Wales, Gregor Townsend’s men will be out to prove a serious point.

Here are five talking points.

Eddie Jones’ mind games.
England’s clash with Wales has once again been slightly overshadowed by Eddie Jones and his outspoken comments. From mocking outhalf Rhys Patchell, to filing an official complaint to World Rugby about Wales skipper Alun Wyn Jones. No doubt his comments have added further spice, but will they play a role this weekend? Should be interesting.

Can Scotland bounce back?
This time last week Scotland were being touted as potential champions. What a difference 80 minutes can make. This weekend though, they’re at home against a French side that hasn’t been tested properly in the wide channels yet. If Scotland can get their exciting brand of rugby to click this weekend, they should be able to bounce back in style.

Can Ireland score some tries?
Joe Schmidt’s men showed some serious bottle last week to snatch victory at the death. But if they’re to win this championship, they need to score some tries. If they can’t do it against Italy, then they are in big trouble. And that’s no offence to Conor O’Shea’s men.

Conor O’Shea’s homecoming.
Here we’ve got the flip side. Conor O’Shea is set to bring his Italian team to Irish soil for the first time. He knows himself, a win is probably stretch too far, but he will expect a lot from his players. Can the Italians frustrate the Irish? Will O’Shea have a few tricks up his sleeve? Don’t bet against it.

Just how good are Wales?
Gatland’s men silenced all their doubters last weekend with an incredible performance against Scotland. But they don’t have much time to bask, as perhaps their biggest Test of the entire competition awaits them tomorrow. England in Twickenham is no easy task, but the Welsh have plenty of experience when it comes to spoiling parties here. A win for Gatland’s men and the championship gets turned on its head.